Headphones with Microphone

Headphones with microphones (or headsets) are suitable for use with PCs and laptops, for gaming, or for internet chatting. Some headphones are equipped with buttons that allow you to take or end calls.

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When choosing a headset, you should first consider what you will use it for

Headsets for PCs or laptops

For computers or laptops, over-ear headphones are ideal. In comparison with similarly priced in-ear headphones, they are more comfortable and offer better sound quality.

Headphones for life on the go

For travelling on the bus, train or plane, in-ear headphones are the most convenient as they are lightweight and easily portable.

Sports headphones

In-ear headphones, such as ear buds, are ideal sports headphones as they fit snugly in your ears, block out ambient noise, and are more comfortable during hot and sweaty workouts.

What else should I focus on when choosing a headset?

Microphone type

Directional microphone - picks up sound from only one direction, making it capable of significantly reducing ambient noise. This type of microphone is common in office headphones and expensive over-ear gaming headphones. Headphones with directional microphones are typically suited to call centres or gaming tournaments.

Omnidirectional microphone - picks up sound from all directions. Compared with directional microphones, they let in more ambient noise. This type is common in earbud headphones and cheaper over-ear models.

Connection

Wireless headsets (Bluetooth, radio frequency) - with no wires, they offer greater freedom of movement (Bluetooth and RF Headphones with a USB transmitter have a range of about 10 metres from the playback device). Wireless headsets have built-in batteries and must be recharged.